NASA is set to evaluate advancements to a tool designed to measure shock waves made by the X-59 quiet supersonic transport, or Quesst, during supersonic flight.
The agency said Thursday the new technology, a shock-sensing probe, will be instrumental in validating computer models and gaining critical insights into supersonic aircraft behavior. The test results will be used to evaluate the current state of supersonic flight and potentially develop a quieter aircraft.
‘Under the Hood’ of the X-59 Quesst Shock-Sensing Probe
The cone-shaped air data probe is designed to capture the unique “sonic thumps” and gather precise pressure data generated by the X-59. Researchers at the Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California developed two versions of this shock-sensing probe. The near-field probe captures shock waves occurring near the X-59 while the mid-field probe measures those at altitudes between 5,000 to 20,000 feet below the research aircraft.
The probes are equipped with five pressure ports, which enables them to sense small pressure changes, particularly the weak shock waves produced by the X-59. These pressure ports combine their data to determine local pressure, speed and airflow direction.
During the test, an F-15B aircraft equipped with the probe will fly behind another F-15. The probe will measure the shock waves generated by the second aircraft during the supersonic flight.
Additionally, the researchers enhanced the heating system to prevent fluctuations caused by changing conditions seen in previous designs.
“A shock-sensing probe acts as the truth source, comparing the predicted data with the real-world measurements,” said Mike Frederick, NASA principal investigator. “The probe will meet the resolution and accuracy requirements from the Quesst mission.”